Homr Intrusion

Question
Please advise if a 410 can be safely used in a 357 revolver.  We have had a murder by intruders in our neughborhood and we think two shotgun rounds with 3 357,s is an approach.  Please advise and suggest.  Thank you, sincerely.

Answer
Hi Jimmie,

Frankly while it is technically possible to use a .410 shell in some revolvers, I think it is HIGHLY DANGEROUS and would not do it.  Also, I don't think the .410 would fit in a .357 revolver but would fit in a revolver chambered for .45 Long Colt.

Back to the original comment...the reason I think it would be dangerous is three-fold.  First, since I don't the age and condition of pistol you have, it may not have the strength to handle the pressure of the shotgun shell.  Second, if fired, the muzzle will throw off a huge blast of flame.  Third, the pattern will be pretty spread out since it needs the longer shotgun barrel to hold it together as it gains velocity.

This last point speaks to lethality or stopping power.  I don't think you will get the effect you are looking for and could also damage the bore of your pistol.

If you are genuinely concerned about home invasion, get yourself a good 12 gauge pump shotgun.  You can pick up a used Mossberg 500 for $200 or less if you look around.  Load it with birdshot for the first round and the rest with .00 or .0 buckshot.  The first round can be 'cycled out' by working the pump if you need to have something lethal from the get-go.  I keep birdshot in as the first round so if I need to shoot someone without killing them I have that option.

Short version...I would NOT recommend that you use shotgun shells in your revolver.  I WOULD get a shotgun.  I would also get a good flashlight to keep in your bedroom along with your cellphone.  IF you hear someone in your house, call 911 immediately and keep yourself barricaded in your bedroom.  Your mattress is a pretty good piece of cover.  Announce that you have called the police and that anyone coming into your bedroom will be shot.  If anyone comes through the door armed that you don't know or don't recognize as a uniformed police officer....well, I think you know what to do if you are under threat of lethal force.

Best of luck to you...if you need more info, drop me a follow up question.

Regards,

Doug